The Wiener Opernball 2025, one of Austria's most prestigious social events, took on heightened significance this year as it marked the first occasion without the iconic Richard "Mörtel" Lugner, who passed away last August at the age of 91. Traditionally known for bringing notable guests to the ball each year, this year's event is set to occur on Thursday, February 27, gathering approximately 5,000 guests at the Wiener Staatsoper.
Richard Lugner was synonymous with the event over more than three decades, captivating audiences with his eccentric choices of celebrity companions ranging from Hollywood stars like Kim Kardashian to Priscilla Presley. Tragically, his absence has created a palpable void, but his widow, Simone Lugner, expressed her intention to celebrate Richard's memory at the event. "Morgen ist es so weit. Richard wird bei jedem meiner Schritte fehlen. [...] Ich weiß, sein Geist wird an diesem Abend bei mir sein und den Ball genießen," she remarked, underscoring the deep connection she feels even as she takes on the role of TV reporter for Puls4.
This year, the Lugner family continues to honor Richard's legacy through various tributes. A prominent tribute is being executed by the street artist Alec Monopoly, whose graffiti portrait of Richard Lugner now adorns the facade of Lugner City, serving as both homage and reminder of the former socialite's significant contributions to the ball's allure. The family's organization of the event has also shifted, with the Swarovski family taking the lead on invitations to high-profile guests.
Underlining the excitement of the evening, the 67th Wiener Opernball will feature notable performances from talented artists, including Nadine Sierra, Juan Diego Flórez, and Maria Nazarova. The musical program this year will predominantly showcase the works of Johann Strauss, famously known as the King of Waltz. “Das musikalische Programm steht ganz im Zeichen des Walzerkönigs,” emphasized one of the KURIER reports, which details the importance of Strauss's compositions to the ball's rich history.
The evening will officially kick off with the presentation of the debutante couples, consisting of 160 pairs who will perform a waltz, including for the first time both same-sex couples and traditional pairings dressed elegantly. Gabriella Hoffmann of the Wiener Staatsoper shared, "This year will be special, as the gentlemen will wear new boutonnieres from Swarovski to match the ladies' tiaras." The creative orchestrator for this significant moment will be Cornelius Meister, the general music director of the Stuttgart Opera.
Meanwhile, celebrities are set to grace the event, continuing the ball's legacy as one of the premier social gatherings. The likes of model Franziska Knuppe and entertainer Bruce Darnell will be present, along with the next generation of star power including Leni Klum, whose attendance is facilitated by Swarovski. The much-anticipated arrival of attendees will be covered live, with interviews conducted by renowned Austrian presenters Mirjam Weichselbraun and Andi Knoll, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the glamour and excitement.
Despite the absence of Lugner this year, organizers are confident the event will retain its prestige and charm. The excitement is palpable, especially with exquisite gowns adorning the attendees, and the first phase of the ball will kick off with pre-coverage as the guests arrive around 20:15 PM. "Der Wiener Opernball gilt als das bedeutendste gesellschaftliche Ereignis in Österreich," according to various sources, emphasizing its cultural and social importance.
This year, Richard Lugner's legacy will live on, not only through tributes and remembrances but also through the celebratory atmosphere of the Wiener Opernball, where friends, family, and admirers will come together once again to dance and share their love for the arts. Despite the changes, the spirit of the Opernball will endure, embodying both the heritage and continued evolution of this storied event.
The Wiener Opernball stands as more than just an annual gala; it symbolizes the heart of Viennese culture, drawing connections between the past and future. Although Richard Lugner's absence is felt, the gathering will certainly reflect his substantial impact and the many memories created through the years. With expectations high, 2025 promises to be another dazzling chapter, filled with laughter, dance, and reverence to one of Austria’s most cherished traditions.